ANSWER: This is a called a springtail or colembola, see http://www.livingwithbugs.com/springtails.html for a close-up picture and info. They are very common and harmless. They sometimes enter homes following heavy rains or during extremely dry conditions. They normally live in leaf litter and garden soils. No treatment is needed other than to sweep them up.

Jack DeAngelis

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QUESTION: Thanks for that information. In my situation they are also in my home (living room table, bathroom storage room, kitchen counters). I don't leave items on my counters so I don't know where they are coming from. I sprayed Wisdom bug killer all around my house a couple times now and it hasn't worked. I'm at a complete loss on how to get rid of them.

AnswerI'm not sure that spraying Wisdom in this case is needed or wise. Springtails really are harmless and can be swept up when found. They do not infest homes but will sometimes enter homes. If you must treat with an insecticide the botanicals are a better choice, see http://www.livingwithbugs.com/botanical_insecticide.html for info about these insecticides.

Expertise

I can answer questions about the control of pest insects, spiders, mites and related arthropods. These household pests include termites, carpenter ants, powderpost beetles, nuisance ants, bed bugs, cockroaches, fleas, wasps, and many others. I can also answer questions about using pesticides and other pest control tools such as baits and traps.

Experience

I am a retired university extension entomologist. I've taught and conducted research in urban and agricultural entomology. I've published over 70 extension publications, 20 research publications and several books about insects.